Aggravated Assault Attorney in Lake Charles

Facing Aggravated Assault Charges in Lake Charles? You’re Not Alone

If you or a loved one is dealing with aggravated assault charges in Lake Charles, you may be feeling overwhelmed, frightened, and unsure about what comes next. At Sudduth & Associates, LLC, we understand that your world may have changed in an instant. Our team stands with you from the very first call, providing prompt, respectful guidance and defense.

What sets us apart is our commitment to treating every client like family. You will not be pushed aside or left wondering about your options. We believe in clear communication, compassion, and a defense strategy tailored to your unique situation. If you need an aggravated assault defense attorney Lake Charles residents trust, our courtroom-ready team is prepared to help you protect your future.

Get the advantage of a former prosecutor and over 100 years of collective experience. Call a powerful aggravated assault defense attorney in Lake Charles at (337) 282-9003 or contact us online for immediate intervention.

Understanding Aggravated Assault Laws in Louisiana

In Louisiana, aggravated assault is defined in contrast to simple assault. Simple assault is merely the attempt or intentional placement of another in reasonable fear of receiving a battery. Aggravated assault takes this core definition and elevates it by introducing a dangerous weapon.

Louisiana Revised Statute § 14:37 defines aggravated assault as:

An assault committed with a dangerous weapon.

Felony Aggravations of the Charge

While the core charge of Aggravated Assault is a misdemeanor (up to six months in jail), certain factors make the offense an automatic felony with far heavier penalties:

• Aggravated Assault with a Firearm (R.S. § 14:37.4): Committing the assault with any firearm, regardless of whether it is loaded or unloaded, is a felony offense.
• Domestic Abuse Aggravated Assault (R.S. § 14:37.7): Committing the assault upon a family or household member is a felony punishable by hard labor.
• Aggravated Assault upon a Peace Officer (R.S. § 14:37.2): Assault committed against a peace officer acting in the scope of their duties is also a felony.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Aggravated Assault Convictions

The consequences of an aggravated assault conviction in Louisiana are severe and depend heavily on the specific subsection of the law under which you are charged.

Direct Consequences

• Aggravated Assault (R.S. § 14:37):
  • Classification: Misdemeanor
  • Maximum imprisonment: Up to 6 months in parish jail
  • Maximum fine: Up to $1,000
  • Notes: Penalties can be enhanced if the offense is committed against an employee during a theft
• Aggravated Assault with a Firearm (R.S. § 14:37.4):
  • Classification: Felony
  • Maximum imprisonment: Up to 10 years (with or without hard labor)
  • Maximum fine: Up to $10,000
  • Notes: Mandatory minimum sentences apply when a firearm is used
• Domestic Abuse Aggravated Assault (R.S. § 14:37.7):
  • Classification: Felony
  • Maximum imprisonment: 1 to 5 years at hard labor
  • Maximum fine: Up to $5,000
  • Notes: Mandatory minimum of 2 years if a child 13 or younger was present

A conviction for a felony aggravated assault charge will result in the loss of certain constitutional rights and subject you to years of supervised probation or parole.

Collateral Consequences

Beyond jail time and fines, a conviction for aggravated assault in Lake Charles creates devastating long-term problems:

• Loss of Firearm Rights: A conviction for felony aggravated assault results in a permanent prohibition on owning or possessing a firearm under both Louisiana and federal law. Even a conviction for misdemeanor aggravated assault by a person convicted of certain domestic abuse batteries or protected orders can result in loss of firearm rights.
• Employment Disqualification: Crimes of violence severely limit employment, particularly in fields requiring licensure, security clearances, or working with children or vulnerable populations.
• Reputational Damage: The social stigma and damage to your standing in the community from a violent crime conviction can be permanent.
• Immigration Issues: Non-citizens face the risk of deportation or exclusion, as these offenses are often classified as crimes of moral turpitude or aggravated felonies under federal immigration law.

Our firm focuses on securing a non-conviction outcome, which is the only way to fully protect you from these collateral consequences.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Aggravated Assault Defense

A successful defense against aggravated assault charges centers on the specific circumstances and the question of legal justification. Our strategies are informed by our over 100 years of collective experience and inside knowledge of prosecutorial tactics.

We focus on these primary defense angles as your aggravated assault defense attorney in Lake Charles:

• Self-Defense/Defense of Others: The most common and powerful defense. We argue that your actions were legally justified because you reasonably believed you were in imminent danger of unlawful force or battery and that you used no more force than was reasonably necessary to prevent the harm. We present evidence showing the alleged victim was the initial aggressor.
• Challenging the "Dangerous Weapon" Element: In cases involving common objects (like a baseball bat, car, or glass bottle), we argue that the object, in the manner it was used, was not calculated or likely to produce great bodily harm, thereby reducing the charge from aggravated to simple assault (a significant reduction in potential penalties).
• Lack of Reasonable Fear: We attack the credibility of the victim's claim of fear. If the victim's reaction was exaggerated, unreasonable, or motivated by revenge or domestic conflict, we argue the element of assault was not met.
• Constitutional Defenses: We meticulously review the facts for any violation of your Fourth (unlawful search/seizure) or Fifth (right to remain silent) Amendment rights. A violation here can result in the exclusion of key evidence, potentially leading to a dismissal.

Why Trust Our Team with Your Defense

At Sudduth & Associates, LLC, our attorneys have managed challenging aggravated assault cases in Lake Charles and throughout Louisiana. Our firm’s legacy of public service is strong, and we work to be your partners during a difficult time—not just your legal representatives in court.

Our approach is rooted in family values and accessibility. We offer urgent and same-day appointments and bilingual consultations for Spanish-speaking clients. Whether you need immediate support after an arrest or ongoing help through trial, our attorneys are ready to step in. 

You will benefit from our willingness to fight aggressively in the Calcasieu Parish courts and our focus on delivering fair, effective legal representation, no matter how complex your case may be.

How We Build Your Defense—Step by Step

Every aggravated assault defense starts with an urgent, focused response. As soon as you contact us, we schedule a confidential consultation—often on the same day—so you can share your side of the story right away. During this meeting, our attorneys listen carefully, answer your questions, and begin building a legal strategy tailored to your needs.

This is how our step-by-step process supports you:

• Consultation & Rapid Assessment: We meet with you quickly after an arrest or charge to review your situation, answer urgent questions, and address immediate concerns such as securing bail in Lake Charles.
• Detailed Investigation: Our team gathers facts, evaluates police reports and witness statements, and seeks out any available evidence—from video surveillance to digital communications—that may strengthen your case.
• Strategy Development: We outline possible legal defenses, including self-defense, lack of intent, mistaken identity, or challenging the circumstances that led to aggravated charges.
• Negotiation & Court Representation: We represent you at each stage, whether negotiating with prosecutors or presenting your defense in court, ensuring your interests come first.
• Ongoing Communication: We update you in clear, understandable language—either in English or Spanish—so you remain informed and empowered every step of the way.

Our approach turns a confusing and stressful time into a manageable path forward so you do not feel lost during legal proceedings.

Take Action Now—Protect Your Freedom & Future

Aggravated assault charges can move fast in Lake Charles. Reaching out to an aggravated assault defense attorney Lake Charles residents rely on gives you the best chance to stay ahead. Early action allows us to preserve evidence, arrange bail if needed, and start building your defense before key deadlines pass.

At Sudduth & Associates, LLC, we make starting the process simple. Our team offers urgent consultations and welcomes Spanish-speaking clients. From the moment you contact us, you become part of a team dedicated to your future and peace of mind.

Contact us at (337) 282-9003 to schedule your confidential consultation. Let us help you protect what matters most.